When Pastor Thielicke was preaching to the faithful in Stuttgart, Germany amidst the bombings of the second Big War, the Holy Spirit surely anointed him. He spoke hard truths to his flock despite the fact their lives were already rattled by war.

When he came to Thy Will Be Done in his series on the Lord’s Prayer, Pastor T. said, “Is all that goes on rumbling in our own hearts - the protesting thoughts that will not be reconciled, the fretful spirit of worry and anxiety, the egoism in our attitude toward our neighbor - is all this that goes on within us in thought, word, and deed, and even in our dreams, really the will of God? Is not this again our own will, which is so terribly hard to break and which never tires of arrogantly turning down the latch when God knocks on the door of our heart? Is it not our own will that really makes us so unhappy? Is it not our own will that we want to be freed from when we cry, ‘Thy will be done?’”*

Oh brothers and sisters, isn’t that the cold, hard truth? In the seventh chapter of Brother Paul’s letter to the Romans, his heart cries, “I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.”

Sound faintly familiar? I want to eat right but I don’t plan and prep my weekly meals. I want to honor my Father by celebrating His bounty but snack foods and sweets lure me beyond my willpower. I truly intend to do my temple maintenance by walking in the evenin’s but fatigue overwhelms me.

Yessiree, just like Brother Paul, what we want to do we don’t. That stubborn will that “never tires of arrogantly turning down the latch when God knocks on the door of our heart.” Ouch Pastor T.!

But surely the pastor’s words remain right, which is exactly why Jesus came to die on a cross. We are broken, weak, and willful sinners. It’s exactly why we must get down on our knees, again and again, day after temptation-filled day, and call out for our Father’s help. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

Pastor T. continues his sermon by saying, “‘My food is to do the will of my Father in heaven.’ Mark you, what he said was: My food is to do the will of the Father. It is not an “extra,” a “dessert,” to which I think about only after the elemental physical needs of my appetite and my life have been appeased, something with which I round out the meal of life by giving it a bit of religious flavor. No, it is my food, it is the principal meal of my life to do the will of God. That is to say: Just as I live by mydaily bread, just as my heart and my eyes and my whole body are driven toward food by the spontaneous urge of hunger, so I live by the will of the Father, so I am driven to him and linked to him with every fiber of my being.”

Profound truth, church, both metaphorically and literally.

Jesus spoke of following his Father’s will as an analogy to His - and our - need to listen to and follow Him moment by moment. Just like meals give us nourishment and energy to do our God-given work, so filling our hearts with His Word and doing His will fuels us spiritually.

But since so many of you spend so much time and energy worrying and fussin’ over food, compare that intensity and consistency to your yearning for His Word and the still, small voice of His Spirit. Are you reading the Good Book for strength and comfort as often as you’re opening the refrigerator seeking the same? Do you crave His commands like you crave snacks and sweets? Are you as obsessed over listening for your Father’s leading as you are with what you plan to eat next?

Possibly therein lays the problem. Instead of trying a new diet, maybe you need to feed more from Jesus’ table. Maybe every time you think you need a sweet treat or a burger and fries from the pick-up window you should bow down your head, take several deep, deep breaths, and pray Pastor Thielicke’s fervent prayer:

“Thanks be to thee, O God, that I may surrender my will to thine. Thanks be to thee that now I can throw overboard all my willfulness, all my own dreams and hopes. Thanks be to thee that I may renounce them all, and that now it no longer hurts me to do so, that it is really no sacrifice at all, but that I can cheerfully put myself in thy hands.”

It no longer hurts me to renounce my own will - my cravings and my excuses - because I’ve put my life and my choices into my Father’s hands.

Thy will be done, Father.

Thy will be done.

Live Well,

Grace

*Our Heavenly Father, Sermons on the Lord’s Prayer, by Helmut Thielicke, copyright 1960 by John W. Doberstein, Reprinted 1974 by Baker Book House by arrangement with the copyright owner Harper & Row, Publishers, Inc.

]]>Thy Will Be DoneSquattin' in the SpiritChristianEncourageentFaithGraceMon, 04 Mar 2019 13:23:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/4/9/squattin-in-the-spirit5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5acd2b706d2a73d1844063c6Dear friends,

Did you ever consider you can strengthen your faith every time you sit? My pastor shared an analogy on Sunday that truly got my brain percolating. He was speaking on unbridled faith and used a chair as a visual. As he stood beside it he asked, “Am I putting my faith in this chair to hold my weight?” Of course the answer was obvious. He then propped his foot on the seat and asked again, “Am I trusting the chair to support me now?” “No,” the audience murmured. Next he hovered his hiney above the seat, just like you would squat in the woods to pee. (You’ve never relieved yourself in the forest? Oh honey, you need to get out more.) And for the final time the congregation clearly connected the analogy. Refusing to surrender completely to the strength of the chair resembles our reserve in fully trusting Jesus. We must place our entire lives into His hands, completely releasing our own will, wishes and ways. Do you fully rely on the stability of His love, faithfulness and promises?

I sort of giggled to myself as I listened to the pastor speak, thinking about my own bottom nearing but not quite surrendering to the strength and comfort of my gracious heavenly Father. Oh no, I got just a few small things I want to handle myself. You know, we all have ’em. Those little pet sins we prefer to keep private, or those self-identified needs we’re sure God has overlooked. Like one of Santa’s faithful elves, we’re happy to help Him out by going after it ourselves. Then afterwards we feel a little pitiful and pathetic, believing He was unwilling to provide quite right.

What is it you’re holding too tightly? God, I give you everything except ………….

Lord, I mostly trust you, but this one thing…………

Father, I admit I struggle fully believing You’re going to care for me in this area ………….

If you’re sticking one little fear or small little sin in the closet, thinking you’ve surrendered enough, then you’re doing a self-reliant squat! Instead of sitting and resting on God’s throne of grace you’re hovering above the seat and feeling the burn of self-reliance! Oh saints, squatting in the flesh is surely a great exercise to strengthen your middle. (Yes, can you feel while you’re squatting you use your back and belly too? Not so sure? Go pee in the woods for a week…) But don’t be squattin’ in the Spirit! Give God ALL of you! Cast ALL your cares on Him! He cares for you Church! He is intimately acquainted with ALL your ways so you might as well fess up! Lay those burdens down and put your bum fully flat on the cushion of Christ. And while you’re sittin’ a spell, ponder these holy scriptures:

Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” Exodus 3:13-14

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” Genesis 1:1-2

God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? Numbers 23:19

O Lord, you have searched me and known me!2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.3 You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.5 You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. Psalm 139:1-6

This week, every time you sit - and I mean EVERY time you sit - surrender. Say, “Jesus, I surrender all to you. My fears about finances. My angst over the future. The ill feelings I carry toward you-know-who. I am going to relax in Your loving arms, trusting in your stability and strength. Thank You, Almighty God, that You are faithful and trustworthy, ever present in all my times of need.”

Live Well,

Grace

]]>Squattin' in the SpiritHallow HimEncourageentChristianGraceMon, 25 Feb 2019 13:02:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2017/12/13/hallow-him5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5a31a3d84192029857212b27After all that powerful pondering last week on God’s children being inviolable through Christ - sacred - holy and indestructible - I felt compelled to give gratitude and praise to the Source of our sacredness. I was overwhelmed with the yearning to give glory to the giver of life. Then it occurred to me our Savior Jesus presented that offering of honor in the prayer He taught His disciples: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Of course I immediately hunted for hallowed in my new, vintage Webster. (If you didn’t hear about my most recent thrift store gem, read last week’s letter.)

hallowed - honored as sacred; made holy or sacred. So to hallow His name means to regard it as holy; to honor Him as sacred.

Oh Father, teach us to honor Your name. To esteem You. To value You highly. To have great regard for Your holiness and your sacredness.

sacred - granted the respect of holy things

So there it is. Respect. Honor. Reverence. That mindset is surely counter to the world’s petty preoccupations to which we often succumb.

Pointless political debate.

Sensational sex scandals.

Hollywood’s eternal drama.

Even sports spectators can become obsessed.

But the Good Word is clear we are called to regularly revere His name. To honor Him. To humble ourselves under His Almighty hand. (I Peter 5:6) To worship and bow down; to kneel before the LORD, our Maker, says Psalm 95:6. My friend Mr. Webster offers quite the dissertation on honor: high regard or great respect given or received; glory; renown; chastity and purity; distinction; to respect greatly and regard highly; to worship and exalt

Yet He tells me to call Him Father. Daddy! Who am I that He would be mindful of me?

“I love you, Gracie” I hear Him whisper, “more than you can imagine. And nothing will ever change that. Not difficult days. Tragedy. Natural disaster or the evils of men. Nothing in all creation will ever separate you from my love. You are precious in My eyes, and I love you.”

A tear trickles. My nose needs a tissue. No words can convey my overwhelming gratitude. All I can do is whisper the familiar words, “How can I say thanks for the things You have done for me? Things so undeserved that you gave to prove Your love for me?”

Sisters and brothers, you are loved by the One who one day will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. (I Thes. 4:16) Does that not crumble you?

Give Him glory, Church. Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do ALL to the glory of God. (I Cor. 10:31) Be still and KNOW. Sit quietly and hallow His name. I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise. (Is 43:20-21)

I love words, don’t you? And I like old things too. (Maybe because I am one…) So when I found a Webster’s New World Dictionary at the thrift store, copyright 1958, I was dancin’ myself dizzy. A bit of its otherwise unrevealed history was unveiled with a neatly handwritten signature on the front page: Kelly, January 22, 1960. Doesn’t that just send your imagination atwirl? Who is Kelly, and how did her life unfold? Is she still a lover of words? Only God knows.

Anyway, I was meditating on I Thessalonians 5:23-24 this morning which reads: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.” I was anxious to read the mid-20th century definition of sanctify from my new Webster, and it didn’t disappoint.

sanctify: to make holy; to make free from sin; to set apart; to make sacred or inviolable.

Inviolable. Hmmm… that was a new nugget for me. Back to Mr. Webster.

inviolable: not to be violated; not to be profaned or injured; sacred; indestructible.

Oh boy, did those words make my Spirit soar! My brain started to bubble with glee. In order to infuse my soul with this profound message from Pastor Paul to the church in Thessalonica, I started substituting phrases:

May the God of peace completely set you apart.

May the God of peace make you holy.

May the God of peace keep you from violating His commands that your spirit and soul and body be kept blameless.

May the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely - keep you from profaning His Spirit in any way. May He make you inviolable. Indestructible.

Personalizing His word presses it into my Spirit. I stood up, raised my hands high and proclaimed aloud:

Your body and spirit are not to be profaned. You are sanctified. Purified. Made holy through Christ. The Holy Spirit in you is just that - HOLY - abiding in you, making you inviolable!

Sisters and brothers, embrace this critical truth which is so easily forgotten in our weak and broken flesh. Because it is truth! His Word is Truth! We have been crucified with Christ so fear and anxiety are dead! You are sacred! Blameless! Indestructible! How? Through FAITH in the Lord Jesus Christ. “The life that I now live I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:21)

Claim it Church! Your purification in Christ is indestructible because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world!

Oh yes, it is easy to doubt this Word of Light in this world of tears, trials and tribulation. We tumble into grumble when dark clouds hover. But those gloomy days are when we must fasten our belts of Truth that Jesus died for our profane and irreverent sins. We PUT ON righteousness. Come on, Church! Righteousness - sanctification - holiness - doesn’t just happen in this sinful world. In the Spirit our spiritual purification will not be violated. Put on your sacred self by renewing your mind. Proclaim aloud:

My God cleanses me completely.

I am set apart as sanctified through Christ.

I am a new creation who is inviolable - impenetrable - to Satan’s schemes.

My spirit and soul and body are indestructible because I am sacred in the Spirit!

I am holy because He is holy and He lives in me!

Brother Paul summarizes his profound teaching in verse 24: He who has called you is faithful; He will surely do it.

Oh Church, how privileged we are to live in the protection of the Almighty! He who has called you to sacredness - to holiness - to purity in the spirit, soul and body is faithful. HE will do it! Live BY FAITH in the Son of God who loves you and gave Himself up for you!

Has some circumstance flattened you with fear? May the God of peace sanctify you completely.

Are you angry at someone? May the God of peace purify you completely. He is faithful. He will do it. You can’t ‘cus you’re too resentful in the flesh.

Struggling with maintaining your temple? You succumb way too often to sugar and sluggishness? Do you not know? Have you not heard? You are inviolable in your body! If your Father is calling you to care for the home of His Holy Spirit - if the God of peace is calling you to keep your body blameless - then your resolve is indestructible. Dine well as a holy sacrifice, acceptable unto God as His chosen one - set apart - sanctified - purified.

Victory over our fleshly desires, human frailties and long-time lies Satan loves for us to believe, even when they’re demeaning and destructive, is possible only by truth-claiming: He who has called me out of the darkness is faithful. He will surely strengthen me. He will uphold me with His righteous right hand. Glory!

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:3-8)

Dear friends,

Our church got wind last week of a family in town who is struggling. The mister hurt himself and can’t work and the Mrs. is away caring for her sweet mother in her final days. They have two young ‘uns and an older boy who is - how do they say it today? - “challenged.” So word went out to our congregation, inviting members to sign up for one healthy meal, feeding that family the love of Jesus in this time of trouble. One of my church sisters said to me, “I love to bake. I think I’ll take over a batch of cookies or a cake for the children.”

As I sat with the Lord this morning I said, “Lord, why is it the church family is intent on sugaring up your children? Why do we see cakes and pastries as loving one another?” Now back when I was a wee one we had no knowledge of the detrimental effects of sugar, but nowadays when doctors are warning about childhood diabetes and obesity, why do we continue to dangle temptation? That same week at church the young gal heading up the summer Vacation Bible School was asking for volunteers to bake sweet treats for the children. So those kids will be learning about the love of the Lord, all the while being fed things sure to send their little systems into a tailspin. Why Jesus? Why do we correlate dessert with love?

When I was in the eighth grade I was smitten. Calvin Divine was the star of our football team’s defensive line, and every time he heroically tackled the driving offense I proudly beamed. And the special tale is Calvin was sweet on me too. He regularly figured a way to cross my path when I was walking home from school, and often wooed me with comely bouquets. (Oh that Calvin, I have a suspicion nearby neighbors unknowingly contributed to his courting.) Oh lawdy, it sure made my tummy twirl to see Calvin’s glistening eyes. He told me I was pretty and real smart. Like a rightly-reared gentleman he always offered to carry my books for me but I vehemently declined. Did he think I wasn’t capable of toting my own bag? But finally one day I realized my self-sufficiency caused his heart true sorrow. The sparkle in his eyes sputtered. But bless sweet Calvin, he kept trying’ and tryin’, askin’ and askin’, until one day I said, “OK Calvin, I’m going to allow you to carry my schoolbag today.” Oh mercy, did he beam! He simply wanted to show me some kindness.

I was musing about ol’ Calvin this morning, wondering how his life unfolded. When my daddy moved us to the city sadly we lost touch. But I was considering how my friendship with Calvin mirrored God’s love. Calvin wanted to be near me as often as I would allow. He yearned to help me - to selflessly support me - to intently listen to me - to unconditionally care for me. Honestly, Calvin adored me. And do you know Jesus cares for you even more than Calvin did for me? He yearns for an intimate and trusting relationship with you. He wants to carry your burdens - to give you good gifts - to bless you.

God is smitten with you.

But just like my belligerence with carrying my own school books, we want to be self-sufficient. We’re intrigued with God’s overtures but heaven forbid we look weak or incompetent. “I can care for myself, thank you.” And surely our rejection of His affection saddens Him mightily. And where does it get us? Alone. Burdened. Overwhelmed. Oh so weary. And surely sorrowful. Wouldn’t life be easier if we’d allow the Almighty to help? He clearly invited us to cast all our cares on Him. Why? Because He intends to trick you or trap you? Because He wants to be the Boss? (Well, yes, that He does…) No, because He cares for you. He loves you so much He sent His Son to die that you might be holy in His sight. He came to give you an abundant life. He’s offering fresh, beautiful blessings each and every day, and He surely doesn’t need to raid the neighbor’s garden! Do you know He even sings over you while you are sleeping? (I had to consider if Calvin would go so far as to sing over me while I was snoozin’. Oh that special angel, he surely would have.)

Allow the Lord Jesus to care for you today.

Let Him carry your books with one arm and hold your hand with the other.

Have you ever considered how much better you feel when you’ve gone out and done a good brisk walk? You come home with a whole new mood. Little annoyances seem petty. Big problems become manageable. And the cat (or husband…) you wanted to kick to the curb gets a big ol’ hug o’ love when you get home. Your body and brain got some fresh air and your soul feels refreshed. Isn’t that just what Paul promised us in Galatians 5:22? The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. And after a physicalinvigorating your spirit is soarin’.

Have you ever experienced the power of Praise Walks? Oh sure, you can sing accolades to Jesus from anywhere. And we’re called to pray without ceasing, meaning all the day long. But there’s just a little extra power when you’re lifting your voice while you’re moving your feet! Hold your head high, swing your arms feverishly, plant those feet like you mean it, and lift your voice to the Lord! Glory! Exercising takes on a whole new meaning! You’re sweatin’ for the Lord!

So if you have one of those phones that does everything but your dishes, (who knows, maybe that new iPhone does dishes too…) or those tiny juke boxes folks have now for music listening, load it up with songs celebrating Jesus! Lift up your voice and sing His praises! But remember, they’ve got to be toe-tappin’ tunes so your pace has some pep. Consider ol’ Johnny Cash singing “Do Lord,” or Alan Jackson’s rendition of “I’ll Fly Away.” And do you know Leon Patillo? Oh glory, that man can sing! Listen to him praise his Father singing “Dance Children Dance”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CY6v5_OSno

We were discussing walking in the Spirit the other day and the more I prayed about it the more I was convinced it’s a real good idea. But it’s a good idea not just as a reaction to temptation, but as a defense against temptation. Here’s what I’m meaning. Everyone knows we all feel a whole lot better when we’re moving regularly. And surely, bicycling and running and rowing a boat is real good exercise. But there’s a lot of us who just can’t do all that any longer. Though I heard an interview just the other day about a woman who rode her bike ‘til she was 97 years old! Anyway, if moving our temple and getting’ our heart a working some is a good thing, then walking is the easiest way for most of us to get it done. But don’t you think walking in the Spirit would be even better? What if while you were walking you were speaking the Word? Or praying to your best friend Jesus? Or maybe listening to one o’ those podcasts by your favorite pastor? Wouldn’t that be food for both body and soul?

So go on! Get on out there today and walk in the Spirit!

Live Well,

Grace

]]>Keep Walkin' in the SpiritWalkin' in the SpiritExerciseEncourageentChristianGraceMon, 14 Jan 2019 12:30:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2017/7/10/walkin-in-the-spirit5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5963c64f6b8f5bcb16b3f655

“Walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh… to keep you from doing the things you want to do.” Read Galatians 5:16-26

Dear friends,

That short paragraph by Paul packs a whole lot of punch against wily Satan. “Walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh…” Paul is encouraging the Galatians to stay in faith. Keep reading and speaking the Word. Be still and listen deep inside for the Lord’s still, small voice. Surely that’s all good. Real, real good. But what if we took his advice one step farther? (pun intended) What if every time we felt that ol’ flesh coming in on us we went for a walk? What if you got on your treadmill late at night when you were about to pour yourself a bowl of chocolate pecan ice cream? What we know from those experts on exercise is walking to the point of elevating your heart rate increases those endorphin hormones that make you happy. They raise your spirit! Moving also brings blood to your brain and makes you think more clearly, giving you more sense to say no to Satan’s sabotage. So I’m thinking we should take Brother Paul’s words literally. Walk in the Spirit!

Several folks have asked me over the years, “Gracie, how do you stay so slim?” I never really gave it any thought until I was asked. Sincerely, it’s pretty simple. I know there’s a lot of those fitness experts who have all kinds of new-fangled ways to exercise, and surely there’s no shortage of diets. Low fat. High protein. Gluten free. Vegetarian. Sure can make your head spin. Well I just go back to my Mama’s advice. She used to say, “Gracie, God gave us plenty o’ bounty to eat so don’t offend Him by choosing something He didn’t make.” She would surely be opposed to all the store-bought boxes folks call food today. And when it came to exercise she’d say, “God gave you two good legs. Now go use ‘em.”

So when I started thinking about why the Church Body struggles so with their weight and eating poorly, I came to the conclusion there are four important things to remember and do. I call them the Power-Full P’s.

1. Pray - Anyone who’s sincerely following Jesus knows every day and all things must be surrendered to our heavenly Father. He’ll show you what to do, and give you the strength and courage to do it. Surely when we’re trying to start a new habit, especially if it doesn’t feel preferable or comfortable, if we think it’s something the Lord desires of us we gotta get on our knees and ask Him to help us. Remember, His power is perfected in your weakness. When you are weak, He’ll make you strong. So the first step to taking better care of yourself is to say, “Jesus, I’ve tried before to clean up my plate and I keep on being tempted by tater tots. Fill me with Your Spirit of self-control when my flesh wants to grab something that sabotages.

2. Partner - Few folks can keep up a hard habit all by themselves. That’s why Weight Watchers and A.A. and even exercise classes are so helpful, ‘cus you’re accountable to someone. Oh, I know, many of you are saying to yourself, “I can do it on my own.” Well, at the risk of offending, if you can, why haven’t you? Seems if you coulda you woulda by now. And anyway, we are called as Christians to support one another. Paul told those church folk in Galatia, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” So if you think you can start doing better on your own, why not help someone else? Maybe your vigor and resolve will get them moving in the right direction too. So after you pray, find a friend or two to walk with you. What about your small group at church?

3. Practice - Funk and Wagnalls define practice as follows: perform (an activity) or exercise (a skill) repeatedly or regularly in order to improve or maintain one’s proficiency. To carry out or perform a particular activity, method or custom habitually or regularly. Get the picture? Do it again and again. Too often we get started with food changes or walking regular, then something happens that gets us off course. That’s natural. The problem is we tend to stay off course. Our practice turns pitiful. Like that tennis shoe company says, “Just do it.” Sometimes I think we just simply get lazy. It’s easier to eat at a drive-thru or sit on the couch and watch TV. Well Jesus never said life this side of heaven was gonna be easy. In fact, John’s gospel says “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart! I have overcome the world!” So there it is. It comes right back to Jesus to conquer our desires of the flesh. And Brother James tells us that when hard stuff comes we’re to be joyful, ‘cus trials produce character. So next time you hear yourself whining about walking, rejoice! You got some character buildin’ coming!!

4. Preach - Have you ever heard of a highfalutin concept called Hierarchy of Learning? Seems those smart people who study how we remember best have determined the more we participate the more we learn. For example, if you hear something, like your preacher ‘s Sunday sermon, you only retain about 5% of what he said. My lands, that’s purely pitiful. Seems hardly worth getting’ all gussied up for. Now if you listen and write down what he says, you’ll likely retain 10%. Better, but still not maximum rememberin’. But if you go out and tell someone what you heard, you’ll not only commit more to memory, you’re more likely to do what was preached. So if you go out and talk up the value of walking to all your friends, how the Good Lord wants us to do our temple maintenance, you’re more likely to do it yourself.

So those are the Power-Full P’s. Pray. Partner. Practice. Preach. If you do these are you guaranteed success in your temple maintenance? I surely wish it were so. The truth is P #5 pops up often enough, and that’s Pitfalls. You’re going along, you and your bestie trusting in the Lord to give you strength to treat your temple like it’s holy, and one day you’re distracted by a birthday day party or donuts in the office or the neighborhood BBQ and before you know it you’ve fallen into the pit. You can’t get ketchup and relish on that hotdog fast enough. And since you’ve already “blown it”, why not have a brownie too? And you find yourself lying in your bed that night with your belly big as a balloon. No worries! The pit is part of the process! Just get yourself up the next morning and start with Power-Full P #1: Pray. “Jesus, I love you so. I am so grateful for the body you’ve given me and I truly want to serve You by caring for it. It’s dreadfully difficult, Jesus. There are so many foods that taste so good and in the moment I think I just have to eat them. But I know Your power is perfected in my weakness so I’m coming to You confessing I’m weak, Lord. I can’t do this without You.”

And you know what you’re likely gonna hear back from Him? “You’re absolutely right! You can’t. And this little stumble is part of your training process. I’m the Master Potter, molding you into My image. Your defeat makes you more dependent on Me. I will give you power to overcome the temptations of this world. Trust Me. Get up and go do your temple maintenance today, praising me while you walk.”

He loves you sisters and brothers. Pray for God’s strength in your temple-tendin’. Partner with a pal, lifting her up. Practice, Practice, Practice. And Preach the good news of God’s power in your weakness. Because He cares for you.

“…we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling, and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” II Thessalonians 1:11-12

Dear friends,

As the season of fun, food and frivolity slowly comes to a close, are there some areas in your life that need adjusting? Are you contemplating more nutritious meals in the coming year? Considering where you might find windows of time to walk? Is it time to pull out that budget you made, then ignored? And what about your daily time in the Good Book? God revels in relationship with you, you know. Can you cut back on Facebook and Instagram for more time with your Father?

The lie we all too often believe is that we can accomplish even the tiniest task on our own. And when it comes to uncomfortable life alterations, we haven’t a prayer without a prayer. Paul asks His Father that the Thessalonians “fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power.” Not willpower, mind you. God-power. Remember Jesus’ words told by Brother Matthew: “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” That’s ALL things, not just some things. Remember that, Church! Eating healthfully and moving regularly is nearly impossible by our own resolve because your weak flesh keeps whinin’ and complaining about it all. “Healthy food is too bland. I’m too tired to exercise. I’ve never been successful at losing weight.” We surely have no shortage of excuses for ignoring our temple maintenance, now do we? So when your flesh is teetering on the edge of temptation, say loudly with verve, “In my own power, resisting that drive-through is impossible but with God ALL things are possible!”

Do you think your Daddy wants you to fuel your temple well? Then He’ll help you if you ask, don’t you think? Do you believe He’s pleased when you move that miraculous body He gave you? Then pray that He prod you! And don’t be surprised when He does! Then ask Him who you can bless by inviting to join you. And surely you know He’s thrilled when you take time each day to commune with Him and meditate on His Word, so ask Him for strength in the spirit to make it a habit.

Sisters and brothers, as we enter the season of diets, deprivation and New Year’s Resolutions, let’s memorize II Thessalonians 1:11-12 together, shall we? Let’s remind one another often of the power of God-power. And please know I’m here to help if you have questions or concerns about your food or fitness. I’ll be offering some thoughts, presenting fun challenges, and sharing a recipe or two on Facebook over the coming months. (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100018004744084) I hope you make it a place to get Biblical encouragement for your temple maintenance. So please comment and ASK questions! That’s why we’re here – to build up the Body! And remember that as you fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you!

May I pray for you now?

Gracious Father,

You have told us to cast our cares on You, because You genuinely care for us. (I Peter 5:7) We know Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light (Matt. 11:30), if only we would tether ourselves to You instead of trying to make difficult changes all on our own. Father, many of my sisters and brothers in Christ struggle with caring for their bodies. It’s so easy to eat what’s convenient and stay sitting for long spells. Our physical care gets lost in the busyness of life. Father, help us to see our self-care as a way of worshiping You. Please turn our struggles with weight and physical fitness into a journey of faith. Help us to rely on Your strength in times of temptation. As a Church, show us how to stir one another up to love and good deeds – encouraging one another in our physical fitness. (Heb. 10:24) And Father, may we claim II Thessalonians 1:11-12 as our mantra and meditation for physical victory in 2019, that You may be glorified. May You fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by Your power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in us, and us in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!

Maintaining a healthy weight and sticking to your temple maintenance is surely a winding path, isn’t it? We blithely skip through the green meadows of life, zealously feasting on God’s bountiful fare, exercising with verve, praying and praising our Creator for the gift of health and our precious ability to move. Then out of nowhere we find ourselves on a slippery slope. A social gathering rife with unhealthy foods. Inclement weather or simply winter’s abbreviated days, tugging us toward sluggishness. We slip, then we fall, cracking our commitment. The Devil dangles doubt and defeat. “Can I do this?” you quiver in insecurity. “I’ve never successfully stayed on track. I’ve carried too much weight since I was a child. I could never be slim and fit. I can’t…”

And it’s true! In your own flesh you can’t! But this holiday season when it’s easy to topple into the sugar abyss, ponder Who’s holding your hand. Remember and praise the One who promised never to leave nor forsake you. Consider His power being perfected in your temptation and weakness when you surrender to His strength. When you feel yourself teetering, pray aloud:

“Gracious Father, thank You that absolutely NO temptation can overcome me for You will always provide a way of escape when I trust in You. (I Cor. 10:13) You are with me. You never leave me nor forsake me. (Deut 3:16) You are my God who strengthens me and upholds me with Your righteous right hand. (Is 41:10) I take refuge in You and You alone. You are my Rock - my fortress - my protection from temptation. I sing for joy, praising You all day long!

Then sing, saints! Sing strength into your weak, weary soul. Your Maker has promised to hold you securely in His hand. Affirm and celebrate that truth this season with Ada Habershon’s sweet song, He Will Hold Me Fast, shared here by Kristyn and Keith Getty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=936BapRFHaQ

I have a somber confession to make. All too often I have a distasteful spirit. I allow minor annoyances – truly petty things – to anger me. To sour my mood. Oh how that saddens my Father who loves me and provides so well for me! Never have I missed a meal. Mama’s house where I’ve lived most of my adult life is more than enough. I have time every day to sit with my Father, read His Word and set my joys, hurts and concerns before Him. Then I hear my neighbor’s kids’ music blaring loudly – now that certainly would be a grand stretch of the definition of music… and immediately I turn into a cranky pants. I get all stirred up, thinking unkind thoughts toward “those good-for-nothing kids”, (Yes, it’s true. I called Jesus’ beloved children good-for-nothing…) and all my joy in the Lord is crushed by my self-centered, self-inflicted angst.

Can you relate, brothers and sisters? You get up early to have sweet morning time with your Father, then get caught in a traffic jam and immediately turn irritable. And the truly pathetic truth for me is that deplorable attitude can continue for more hours than I want to admit. I share a cup o’ tea with my Lord, thanking Him for my salvation, sanctification and circumstances, then walk away and let Satan steal my joy. Now that is self-induced enslavement folks!

And how often do you allow your mood to dictate your food?

“He makes me so mad I’m going to eat a bowl of ice cream!”

“She was so rude to me I’m going to hit the drive-thru on my way home from work.”

“Those darn kids make me crazy! I need some sugar!”

There’s no question when the devil has ahold of our heart we make choices in the flesh, not the Spirit.

Romans 8:15-17 clearly assures us we did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back in to fear, but have received the Spirit of adoption as sons and daughters. We are heirs with Christ! We need not be dominated by sin (or fear, or judgement or crankiness…) because we are new creatures. The holiest of Spirits lives within us. So next time you feel anger or annoyance start bubbling up, pray, pray, PRAY!

“Oh gracious Father, forgive me for being so self-absorbed. You clearly instruct me in the fifth chapter of Brother Matthew’s gospel to consider others as more important than myself. ‘Love your enemy, and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.’ Jesus said, ‘for even if you love those who love you… don’t even the tax collectors do the same?’ (Oh my how I have had to cover those rowdy kids next door in prayer!)

As II Kings 6:15-17 reminds me, open my eyes to Your spiritual resources, Lord. Help me to see You, Your blessings, ministry opportunities, the needs of others, so my me-me-me thinking is squelched.

Father, I sure do love You. I want to be an ambassador for You. Unkind or anxious thoughts toward anyone – any circumstances – suggest I have a better idea. (Oh Lord, You know I have lots of good ideas…) Save me, LORD, from enslavement by my fleshly demands and desires. Create in me a clean heart. See if there be any hurtful way in me. Guide me in Your everlasting way.”

Live Well,

Grace

]]>Cranky PantsGhost BoyChristianEncourageentGraceMon, 19 Nov 2018 17:40:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/11/6/ghost-boy5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5b0d836103ce64fc5d043da2Martin Pistorius has an incredible story. In his memoir, Ghost Boy, he shares how it felt to be completely paralyzed yet mentally aware, though nobody knew. His early childhood was normal. He played outside. Studied at school. Had fun with his friends. But by his thirteenth birthday he was completely immobile and unconscious. His family had resigned themselves to his looming, inevitable death. But after a few years his brain came back. He heard and understood conversations. He was aware of his surroundings and circumstances – pleasant or not – both people and places. But he had no way to communicate his resurrected consciousness. He was invisible to the outside world. A Ghost Boy.

If you need to be stirred in your enthusiasm for movement, consider if you couldn’t. If you need a nudge to tell someone you love them, ponder being mute. Celebrate your ability to choose your food. Some can’t.

Your body is a miracle, saints. Each breath fuels your blood cells which give you life. The ability to dance is divine. Sing to God’s glory in gratitude for a voice. Honor your body in thanksgiving.

Have you ever awakened with a song on your heart and you’re not sure where it came from? That was me this morning. Before my peepers even saw the light of the morning my head was humming “What a friend we have in Jesus…” Now I’m not complaining mind you. Affirming my kinship with my Lord and Savior first thing before my feet hit the floor is surely a comfort to my soul. I’m assuming it was the Spirit singing inside me so I can share with you. So let’s listen to Mr. Joseph M. Scriven’s 19th century top-o-the-charts hit.*

What a friend we have in Jesus,All our sins and griefs to bear!What a privilege to carryEverything to God in prayer!

Now let’s stop right there. (I do apologize if your spirit was just getting’ stirred. I have posted all the words, without my bothersome interruptions, at the end of my letter.)

What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer. Now that’s according to the Good Word, brothers and sisters. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing - NO THING - but in everything with prayer and supplication with THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known to God.” Now if that isn’t a privilege I don’t know what is. He says, “Cast all our cares on Him because He CARES for you.” He cares about you, church. He cares that you’re feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. He cares that your bank account is running skinny. He cares your kids are pistols. But He doesn’t want you to carry those burdens all by your lonesome self. He says, “Cast them on Me! My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” So Brother Scriven was anointed with Biblical truth and encouragement when he wrote, “What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer.” So before you keep on reading, bow your head and close your eyes and start casting your cares on the Lord Jesus.

Go on. I’ll wait on you……………………………………….

Now don’t you feel a whole lot lighter kicking those cares to the curb?! Oh yes, it truly is an honor and privilege to have the freedom of care-casting!

Now let’s keep singing along with Mr. Scriven’s:

Oh, what peace we often forfeit,Oh, what needless pain we bear,All because we do not carryEverything to God in prayer! Another fount of truth! I have a dear friend named Max who when he sees someone a fretting on something he prods them, “Don’t you borrow sorrow, sister!” Don’t be downcast about woulda, coulda, shoulda. You’re jeopardizing the perfect peace Brother Isaiah sings in the 26th chapter of his Good Book: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Is 26:3)

Because he trusts in You. He casts his cares on his friend Jesus. Oh! What peace we so often forfeit because we keep on carrying our concerns. And how many of you, when you’re feeling distraught head straight for the icebox? You’re subtly saying, “I’d rather get my comfort from Mint Oreos than the God Almighty.” And of course the low hanging fruit of wisdom comes from Dr. Phil when he says, “So how’s that working out for you?” Remember next time you’re reaching in that pantry for some TLC, call on your Good Friend Jesus. I dare you to pray this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, my heart is lonely. (Add your own personal sorrow - fearful, anxious, frustrated…) Those folks at my work get on my last nerve. I’m feelin’ deeply downcast and a bag o’ Nacho Cheese Doritos sounds real soothing. Would you like to join me Jesus? Or would You prefer to walk the dog around the neighborhood, looking for someone to encourage?”

Take ten seconds to make Him that offer and see how the Holy Spirit speaks to your soul. “Cus whatever you do, He’s right there with you you know!

OK, I’m struggling with succinct on this letter but I gotta do Mr. Scriven’s hymn justice by noting all the verses.

Have we trials and temptations?Is there trouble anywhere?We should never be discouraged,Take it to the Lord in prayer.

I can just hear the teenagers of today saying, “Duh!” Is there trouble anywhere? Is there a place on this planet that’s safe and serene? Only if you turn off your TV and your fancy phone and your Internet and you pretend you’re living up in the heavenlies. (Don’t turn it all off or you won’t be able to read my letters…) So obviously troubles abound. And for you who are working hard to eat real food, temptation abounds too. The monthly office birthday party. Fast food on every corner. Grandma’s German Chocolate cake “…made special for you.”

Fret not!

Start singing and praying!

“We should never be discouraged. Take it to the Lord in prayer.”

“Lord Jesus, You have promised You are behind and before me. You assure me that when I am weak - when I die to myself and rely on Your Spirit - You fill me with Your perfect peace. You know the sweets offered after church are a temptation and potential pitfall for me. Fill me with Your Spirit of self-control - Lord, I need Spirit-control, NOT self-control - that I might have victory over the Devil’s donuts!”

See! You did it!! You took it to the Lord in prayer!! He has heard you and prepared you for the Battle of the Buffet!

OK brothers and sisters, I’ve gone way beyond Simon’s recommendation for staying succinct, so take a peek at the last three verses of What a Friend and I’ll bring this letter to a close. Note these lines in particular:

“Can we find a friend so faithful?” How many times do you find yourself whining about something to your best buddy when you’ve never even mentioned the issue to your Best Buddy?

“Jesus knows our every weakness.” Do you think your coming before the God Almighty about your food obsession will surprise Him? Disappoint Him? The only thing that’s disappointing Him is you trying to deal with the struggle by yourself. Remember, when you are weak, then you are strong.

Now doesn’t that make your shoulders relax a mite? Your heart gladden a tad? Your peace bubble up a bit?

Brothers and sisters, don’t spend one more day forfeiting your peace.

Take everything to your Lord in prayer.

Live Well,

Grace

*Did you know Mr. Scriven wrote these words from Canada to comfort and encourage his dear mother who was very ill in Ireland? It was later set to music by Charles Converse and renamed, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

What a friend we have in Jesus,All our sins and griefs to bear!What a privilege to carryEverything to God in prayer!Oh, what peace we often forfeit,Oh, what needless pain we bear,All because we do not carryEverything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations?Is there trouble anywhere?We should never be discouraged—Take it to the Lord in prayer.Can we find a friend so faithful,Who will all our sorrows share?Jesus knows our every weakness;Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy-laden,Cumbered with a load of care?Precious Savior, still our refuge—Take it to the Lord in prayer.Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?Take it to the Lord in prayer!In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,Thou wilt find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promisedThou wilt all our burdens bear;May we ever, Lord, be bringingAll to Thee in earnest prayer.Soon in glory bright, unclouded,There will be no need for prayer—Rapture, praise, and endless worshipWill be our sweet portion there.

]]>What a FriendProne to WanderChristianEncourageentWomenGraceMon, 05 Nov 2018 13:26:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/10/15/prone-to-wander5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5c5359f815fcc041db0039faYou are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off; 10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Is 41:9-10

In returning and rest you shall be saved. In quietness and trust shall be your strength. But you said, “NO!” Isaiah 30:15-16

Dear friends,

In one of my earlier letters I confessed my anemic faith when I’m fettered to the dentist chair. You can read it here: https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/9/10/powerful-pall Well, I guess I’m now obliged to admit to Sin 2.0.

Soon after my recent teeth cleaning I began to feel a bit of an ache in my upper left jaw. It becomes clear you have an issue when chewing is relegated to only one side. With much angst I was forced to make yet another dental appointment. As D-Day neared, my anguish heightened. Not only would a cavity extend my time in the detestable chair, unquestionably it would deepen the damage to my meager means. Folks on fixed incomes are acutely aware of unexpected expenses, you know. I attempted to cast my cares on my Father. The night before my fearful fate I wrote out Isaiah 41:9-10 and tucked the paper under my pillow. When I awakened at 2 a.m. to pee (seems a recurring appointment these days) I savored my Father’s promised presence before falling back to sleep. Fear not, for I am with you;…The next morning I stashed the now crumpled scripture in my pocketbook for easy access. Every stoplight en route to doom I raised my sword of Truth. Be not dismayed, for I AM with you. Before walking into the torture chamber I prayed the prophet Isaiah’s providential provision: I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. God wrapped me in peace that passeth understanding. I was in Good Hands.

Until Dr. D. informed me I needed a root canal. Holy tomato! You would have thunk he had unveiled a fatal disease. I am sincerely sorrowful to say I spun off my spindle. “A root canal! $1500?! I must pay you exorbitantly so I can endure excruciating pain?” I was undone. My confidence in Christ’s care vanished. He had clearly cast me off. Abandoned me to the cold-hearted cruelty of dentistry. And I would strain my small savings to boot. Trust me friends, you do NOT want to know where in the wilderness my mind and my heart wandered. I got so thick in the weeds for days I could barely muster a meaningful quiet time with the Lord, and you know that’s normally my most joyful time of praise, worship and renewal.

But don’t you for one minute think that God will betray you just because your snitty self is ignoring Him. Trying to avoid Isaiah 41:9-10 I stumbled on Isaiah 30:15-16: In returning and rest you shall be saved. In quietness and trust shall be your strength. But you said, “NO!” Oh my! That was a jab right to my heart. I was putting my faith in my faltering finances instead of my heavenly Father who owns the cattle on a thousand hills. (Ps 50:10)

It surely doesn’t take a Biblical scholar to notice Israel’s constant waywardness. Pull out your Bible and read Hosea 4, Nehemiah 9 and all through Exodus. God would clearly reveal His love for and patience with His chosen people, they’d momentarily return and repent, and next thing you know they’d wander off again, just like lost sheep. Honestly, I can relate. Like the rolling hills of West Virginia, I bounce from absolute faith and security to doubt and despair. Up. Down. High. Low. Faith. Doubt. Can you relate, saints? And the valleys are the perfect place for a Pity Party for One, notorious for serving up unhealthy indulgences. Robert Robinson, author of one of my favorite hymns, Come Thou Fount, nailed it. “Prone to wander, I can feel it. Prone to leave the God I love.”

I confess I can be quite judgmental of the contrary Jews. Seems they were always whining and willfully wandering.

But so am I.

If it’s not a root canal it’s traffic. Or noise. Or something really weighty like long lines in the market.

How about you, sister? Are you prone to wander? Prone to leave the God you love? Let’s come before Him together in prayer, shall we?

Oh gracious Father, we confess we so easily falter. Though we attempt to cling to your promise to uphold us with Your righteous right hand, we allow circumstances to sever our tether. Lord, be with my sisters who tend to turn to food for comfort rather than Your steadfast, never waning love. We all so easily tumble into doubt, then disobedience. Take our hearts, Lord, take and seal them. Seal them for Thy courts above.

My Mama always told me hate is a bad word. One time she washed my mouth out with soap when I came home from school and told her I hated Billy Joe Pickering because when I was walking home he ran right up to me and kissed me on the cheek! She said “Gracie, the Lord would be forlorn to hear you use the word hate. He told us to love everyone including Billy Joe Pickering.”

But rest my Mama’s sweet soul, I can say with conviction and vigor I hate the devil. He works overtime to push the Church off course in order to dim their lights for Jesus. And the solemn truth is because of our ancestry with Brother Adam and Sister Eve, we’ve got the devil’s genes right down into our DNA.

Now some of you might take offense to that but it says so right in the Good Book. “No one is righteous, no not one.” (Romans 3:10) Sorry sister, that includes you. We’re all pathetic sinners. We all know what’s right, like not saying “I hate Billy Joe Pickering,” but we do it anyway. (Oh! Mama would be distraught to know I told Billy Joe the very next day I hated him and his brother too. Forgive me, Jesus.) And surely some of you experience Paul’s frustration and remorsefulness when you ignore caring for your temple. You commit to eating only Royal Recipes (Food fit for a King and His kids) but in no time you’re ordering from that big drive-thru menu. You intend to walk a mile every day but when Friday comes your fancy phone registers 00.0. Oh mercy! I do hate the devil! He loves seeing us sinful and sluggish for the Lord. He cheats and lies so as to destroy our good intentions.

But I have some good news, Church. He who is in you is greater than that deceitful dog. And Jesus showed us the power of the Word of God when He whacked away the tempter with the Word. Remember when He had spent 40 days fasting and praying and when He was at the peak of His hunger pangs Satan the scoundrel showed up? That’s just how he is. He kicks us when we’re down. He lies to us when we’re already having a personal pity party. Oh no, Satan! “Get behind me,” Jesus proclaimed. And with the Word of truth He swatted him away.

Brother Paul also preaches the defensive nature of God’s Word when he refers to it as the sword of the Spirit. (Eph 6:17). This is a battle, Church! Your DNA pulls you toward pastries, so you have to crush that hankering by speaking truth. “He who is in me is greater than my draw to this donut. I’m a child of the King and only feed on Royal Recipes!” Jab that contemptible rat with your double-edged sword!

Muse for a moment on Pastor Paul’s words to the church in Corinth: “Now we have NOT received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand (and embrace!) the things freely given us by God.” (I Cor 2:12) So what is it we are freely given by God? Power to prevail!! Brother Paul prays for the church in Colossae: “May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might for all endurance and patience, WITH JOY!” Halleluiah Church! You have overcome the devil in your DNA by the power of your Father’s glorious might! It’s not about will-power but God-power! Give thanks to your Daddy! “Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord,” chastises Paul, “fully pleasing to Him, bearing good fruit!” And one of the fruit of the spirit is self-control. (…just sayin’…)

Oh brothers and sisters, do you know - believe - depend upon - the power of God’s glorious might in defeating temptations of all kinds? Worry? Anxiousness? Financial fears? Relationship struggles? Are you living every day - approaching every hurdle - empowered by the Spirit of God? You cannot overcome! You can’t battle that devilish DNA by yourself. You know it because you’ve tried it, and it hasn’t worked out so well, now has it? But by the power of the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ we can bash down Satan and his treacherous lies. (I just had a visual of bangin’ Satan with a big ol’ baseball bat. Oh mercy, that doesn’t feel seemly, now does it…?) Please pray with me right now:

Oh precious heavenly Father, I confess I regularly settle for defeat. I choose desires - the tauntings - of my flesh above power and strength and love of your Spirit. I get annoyed with others, even my brothers and sisters in Christ. I become fearful over temporal things of this world. I want to control my life - my schedule - MY will be done.

Jesus, You died that I might have an abundant, full, fulfilling life. You know I struggle with eating that which does not satisfy and sitting when my temple wants to walk. In the name of Jesus I rebuke the devil in my DNA. I claim my new life - my sanctification and transformation - and I step out in the Spirit relying on Your power, Your strength, and Your grace.

I love You, Lord. Thank You for picking me up one more time.

Live Well,

Grace

]]>The Devil in Your DNAR.O.I.ChristianEncourageentFoodGraceMon, 22 Oct 2018 12:18:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/10/22/roi5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5bd0b7680852290ddbc720fd28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ Luke 14:28-30

Dear friends,

Time efficiency is a bit of a compulsion for me. I rarely drive into town until I am ready to run at least three errands. I shut out the world every morning so I can tend to my letters to you without distraction or interruption. And I am giddy with glee when I make a pot o’ stew that will nourish me for multiple meals.

Return on Investment is a fancy term for what my Mama used to refer to as getting her money’s worth. She wasn’t much of a shopper but you can bet when she bought us kids new clothes at the start of a new school year they came from the sale rack. We ate a lot of beans because Mama not only knew they were more nutritious than red meats, but they were also much cheaper. She always had a spectrum of colors on hand, each in its own glass jar. I’m sure that’s why I so enjoy shopping the bulk foods aisle even today. She started every culinary enterprise by soaking. It may sound like using dried beans is unduly time consuming, but Mama was one of the first in our neighborhood to buy herself a pressure cooker, because it saved on fuel costs. In those days that was risky business as they were prone to explode if you didn’t watch real close. I remember one time Mama instructed me to keep an eye on the pot, but I’d just had myself a big ol’ glass of cucumber water (Do you ever infuse your water with cukes? Oh mercy, another God-given delight!) so just about the time the toggle was startin’ to jiggle, so was my baby bladder. I ran outside to gain some relief (We didn’t get inside plumbing until after the Big War), and when I came back inside Mama was steamin’ as hot as the cooker. That pot had popped it’s top and her bean soup was dripping from the ceiling. You can guess how I spent the remainder of the afternoon.

After every Sunday sermon when I watch my church family devour cookies and pastries or those mini-cinnamon rolls from Costco, I think about R.O.I. When you ask folks why they eat them many simply respond, “Because it tastes good.” Fair enough. But let’s look at the benefit compared to future repercussions. The pros and cons. Whether you really get your money’s worth in that five minutes of bliss.

Consider this familiar scenario: Church service goes long (again…) so your tumbly’s grumblin’. As usual, a plethora of sweet treats and coffee await you in the Fellowship Hall. You surely can’t fellowship without sweets, right? Without any forethought, before anyone can say Glory Halleluiah, you’ve inhaled one of Betty’s homemade chocolate chip oatmeal walnut cookies. The oatmeal and nuts make them healthy, right? How long does it normally take you to finish that fellowship feast? Let’s assume you’re purposely savoring every chew, (along with getting the update from Margaret on Mr. Canton’s new girlfriend, who just buried his wife three months ago... ) so you’re not wiping your hands with the empty napkin for nearly five minutes. That’s some uncommon savoring. How many can consume a cookie in less than 60 seconds?

So let’s consider R.O.I.

If you’re honestly attempting to lose a few pounds, what’s it going to take to get rid of those extra, unproductive, unconscious calories? CalorieKing.com estimates it hovers around 500 calories (510 for 4 oz cookie), 39 gm of sugar and 27 gm of fat. On average, folks burn about 100 calories per hour walking briskly. Now don’t get fussy, but men burn more than women because the more muscle you have the more calories you’ll burn during any activity. So start strength training, sisters. You have to walk for over an hour (1:15-1:30 to be exact) to burn off your five minutes (or less) of pleasure. But it’s not just calories you consumed. You also ingested approximately 39 grams of sugar, the near equivalent of 10 teaspoons, making your blood sugar bounce like a basketball, increasing your cravings for sweets the rest of the afternoon. And remember, your brain processes sugar as a reward, so the more you eat the more you want. Read this WebMD article for some luscious insight: https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-sugar-addiction

Is that really getting the most for your money? An astute investment in your own health, energy, soul satisfaction and well-being?

A sister recently shared with me her concern over inflammation and excess weight, while at the same time saying, “I’m a spontaneous, free-spirited soul and my food choices are often impulsive too.” What kind of return is she getting from her impromptu food plan?

As much as we all want to do what feels comfortable and pleasurable, if we don’t live with restraint we’d lose our jobs, overspend ourselves into bankruptcy and say things that would hurt feelings and stir up adversity. And so it is with food. Sure, that blueberry cobbler tastes good. But does it provide adequate return on your investment in you?

Live well,

Grace

]]>R.O.I.Broken YokesChristianEncourageentExerciseFitnessGraceMon, 15 Oct 2018 11:43:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/10/16/broken-yokes5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5bc677bbe79c70e9c7dc5372Is not this the fast that I choose; to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Isaiah 58:6-8

Dear friends,

Do the doldrums immobilize you? Can a pitiful mood draw you to destructive food? Have you all but given up on feeling alive and well? Well sit down, honey. Let me draw you a cup o’ tea and we’ll see what the Good Lord has to say.

Let’s turn to the words of the 58th chapter of the prophet Isaiah. God is speaking once again to those insolent Israelites who tended toward religion vs. contrite surrender to His commands. Like a petulant young ‘un, they would fast one day then seek their own way the next. “Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all our workers. Behold, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to hit with a wicked fist.” In other words, they lived in the Spirit one moment and in the flesh soon after. Can you relate? They were whinin’ to the Lord about why He wasn’t answering their prayers when they’d been so faithful to fast. Well, don’t ask God somethin’ if you don’t want an honest response. Go read Isaiah 58:6-12 right now. I’ll go reheat the tea pot while you’re reading.

Don’t you relish Divine directness? He dearly loves us but mercy, He sure can point out our impudence. He said to the Israelites: Is not this the fast that I chose; to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Ooooowweeee! Those Israelites were busted!

I’m haunted often by Philippians 2:4 But what in the world does all this have to do with feeling dowdy and defeated in your fitness? It’s ‘cus you’re focusing on you. Your downcast feelings. Your pity party. Your apathy toward temple care. And how tired and achy you feel. But what if you surrendered yourself as a servant of the Lord to undo the straps of the yoke to let the oppressed go free?

Let’s stop here for a moment and consider: Who do you know who also struggles with eating healthfully and walking regularly? You’ve commiserated often over your shared sluggishness. So why have you not loosed the bond of lethargy and undone the strap of apathy? You can’t just commiserate and think anything will change. Like God prodded the Israelites, take action! It’s not all about you, saints! Step up and assist the ailing. “Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?” Quit hiding yourself from your own flesh! Many a member of the Body of Christ could use a word of encouragement in tending to their temple. If you’re feeling blue, someone else is too! So get up off that couch and use that fancy phone to call and invite someone to walk with you. And yes, I said call. Heaven forbid you have an actual conversation…

Oh saints, we must consider the needs of others, believing it is our own path to joy and release from bondage. “…if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, THEN shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.” (Is 58:10)

So go on now. Quit your mopin’ and “lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.” (Heb 12:12)

Live Well,

Grace

]]>Broken YokesLiving HopeChristianEncourageentExerciseFaithGraceMon, 08 Oct 2018 11:33:00 +0000https://www.livewellbygrace.com/letters-blog/2018/10/8/living-hope5948861946c3c411a94fcfc9:594896dd4f14bc5e014d6d32:5bad23d153450af3ec305bd23 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, I Peter 1:3-4

Dear friends,

Brother Peter is my favorite on Jesus’ A-Team, though that’s hardly fair because what do we really know about Thaddaeus? I surely can relate to Peter’s fumbling and bumbling and naïve enthusiasm. My spirit is sincerely willing but my flesh is pathetically puny. He asked Jesus to help him walk on the water, but even while he was safely traipsing atop the sea, the threatening waves made him afraid. Then there was the triple rooster debacle…

But Brother Pete surely came around and left us some fine reading for reflection. In his first letter to believers he writes, “According to His (God’s) great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Now that’s a mouthful, if you ask me. A living hope. I love that, don’t you. A living hope.

But before we ponder that profound phrase, let’s look at the reason for his hope: Jesus’ resurrection. What do you think transformed Peter from a sniveling scardy-cat into a strong tower? Jesus’ coming back from the grave. Peter saw the pharisees brutalize and hang his Lord. His dead body was prepared for, then placed in a tomb, sealed with a boulder. Then three days later He’s back, dining with the disciples in the upper room. That was surely a game-changer. Earlier Peter had said, “You are the Christ,” but when times got tough, his head knowledge wasn’t enough to give him undaunted faith and backbone. But Jesus’ resurrection transformed him. His living appearance gave Peter living hope.

Let’s muse a moment on that phrase, consulting Merriam-Webster.

living - having life; currently active or being used; full of vigor; suited for living; not dead

hope - to cherish a desire with anticipation; to desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment; to expect with confidence

When we merge the words we get “currently active hope that’s being used; vigorous expectation with confidence; to expect a desire with anticipation.”

That starts to sound awfully close to Brother Matthew’s gospel, chapter 21 verse 22, doesn’t it? If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. And John 15:7: If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish and it shall be done for you. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” (Matt 7:7-8) But remember the reminder from Brother James: But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. (James 1:6-8

Let’s recap:

Jesus’ resurrection was real. He was dead, dead and came alive, showing Himself to several.

He promised that after He went to His Father, the Helper would come to live inside us. He told us not to worry – to cast our cares in Him – and that anything we ask according to His will He hears us and will grant us. (I John 5:14-15) That should give you hope, saints. Living hope. Vigorous hope. The ability to cherish a desire with anticipation. Expectation with confidence. Why? Because He arose. And because He said so.

So tell me, where is your hope on life-support? Is there something you’ve been diligently seeking that just doesn’t seem will ever come to pass? Is it something you’re sure is the Lord’s will, like a wayward child, a broken relationship, or your toppling temple?

Now I know Brother Peter is referring to our hope for eternal life – that imperishable, undefiled, ultimate hope. But I truly believe God wants His children to trust Him this side of the heavenlies too. Didn’t Brother Paul say that without faith it is impossible to please God? (Heb 11:6) That faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not yet seen? (Heb 11:1) We can be assured He wasn’t just referring to heaven because look at the examples He used in other passages? Sister Sarah desperately wanting a baby. Moses defying the king of Egypt and freeing his tribe from slavery. “For he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” (Heb 11:27) Can you see God working in your life even though He’s invisible? Even those fickle Israelites wanted to trust God – have a living, active, vigorous faith – but their courage kept crumbling. Though they were forced to take the not-so-scenic route, they ultimately arrived in the promised land.

Where is your trust is teetering? Where do you hear yourself whining and complaining like the Israelites, “I hate this manna!” When do you feel depressed and defeated? Is it your tired temple? You commit and recommit to eating well and moving often but you consistently get derailed? Well saints, welcome to this world of trials, tests and tribulation. But just like Peter was ultimately transformed into a man of stable, unflinching faith, so, too, can you. But you must keep your eyes on the prize of the upward call of Christ Jesus. According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

May I tell you a true story? Hershel “Woody” Williams is one of the few living Medal of Honor recipients for his heroism as a World War II marine at Iwo Jima, an island just 2 ½ miles in diameter. When his entire unit had been decimated after just a few days, the commanding officer asked if there was any way the remaining flamethrowers could destroy the enemy’s reinforced concrete holes, called pillboxes, that had already proven invincible in other attacks. Woody said, “I’ll see what I can do.” Covered by just four marines shooting at the front of the pillbox to distract those inside, Woody walked right into enemy fire with his flamethrower. You can read the full story at Living Hope.docx. But here’s the point. When Chris Wallace from Fox News Sunday interviewed Woody, he asked, “Weren’t you scared?” He said, “To say I wasn’t scared would be the biggest lie ever told. But you have to think victoriously.”

Wow. There’s a lesson for us all. And it’s the lesson of which Brother Peter reminds us. We can think victoriously because Jesus rose from the dead. Because according to His great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. We can walk right into enemy fire, claiming Isaiah 43:1-3: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Stand firm on a fervent hope by focusing on your Father. Pray every day: Thank You, Lord, that you are transforming me into a new creation. Because of Your great love, my hope is not consumed. Your love for me never fails. It is new every morning. Great is thy faithfulness. Create in me a clean heart – a living, undaunted faith in You. For You are the Christ, the risen One.